# Suriname avian flu outbreak and water contamination crisis

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/suriname-poultry-and-agricultural-sector-crisis
> Updated: 2026-09-25T14:00:22.000Z. Sources: 10. Developments: 4.

The Surinamese agricultural and food safety landscape has deteriorated following the first confirmed outbreak of avian influenza A type H5. The Bureau for Public Health (BOG) confirmed the virus after high mortality rates were observed in a flock of 6,000 chickens, where nearly 5,000 birds died. In response, authorities have implemented mandatory culling and disinfection protocols, requiring affected businesses and surrounding contact locations to undergo a 28-day closure following the neutralization of contaminated material.

The outbreak has caused severe economic distress. In Commewijne, farmer Rahiel Jakoeb reported the loss of his entire flock and the forced closure of his shop, estimating damages at over SRD 230,000. He has called on the government for financial compensation to survive the mandatory shutdown.

Simultaneously, Suriname is managing a water contamination crisis in the Saramacca River. Investigations by the National Environmental Authority (NMA) identified cyanide, heavy metals, and other chemicals in the water, linked to activities near Moeroekreek. This has resulted in mass fish deaths. Authorities have advised against consuming fish from the area or using the river water, warning that contaminated fish may have already entered the commercial supply chain through various villages. 

Government agencies, including the Ministry of Agriculture (LVV), the BOG, and the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), are coordinating efforts. While human samples have tested negative for avian flu, officials continue to emphasize the need for improved registration and traceability of food products to ensure public safety.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-25: Suriname implements poultry measures following avian influenza outbreak

Suriname is responding to its first avian influenza outbreak with poultry culling and site closures. Local farmers face significant financial losses as authorities work to contain the virus.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/suriname-implements-poultry-measures-following-avian-influenza-outbreak

### 2026-09-23: Suriname faces avian flu outbreak and river contamination

Suriname faces simultaneous food safety threats from an H5 avian influenza outbreak in poultry and chemical contamination in the Saramacca River affecting fish and water quality.

5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/suriname-faces-food-safety-risks-from-river-pollution-and-avian-flu

### 2026-09-21: Suriname poultry industry faces avian flu and import dependency

Suriname's poultry sector faces instability due to an avian influenza outbreak, high livestock mortality, and a heavy reliance on imported meat and animal feed.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/suriname-poultry-industry-faces-avian-flu-and-import-dependency

### 2026-09-12: Suriname Ministry of Agriculture and VSB discuss rice and poultry sector challenges

Suriname's Ministry of Agriculture and the VSB are discussing solutions for the rice and poultry sectors, focusing on hatching egg availability, rising feed costs, and production capacity.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/suriname-ministry-of-agriculture-and-vsb-discuss-rice-and-poultry-sector-challenges

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Cite as: Suriname avian flu outbreak and water contamination crisis. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/suriname-poultry-and-agricultural-sector-crisis